But you also know after watching Riley for two decades to never rule him out. He thinks differently. Bigger. Wilder. And the wild-card is this: Does Riley see Whiteside as the foundation of a champion or a player to deal for one in Aldridge?
Here's what is clear: Riley still has it. That's what this past week has underlined. The key was to get Wade signed in a way that gives the Heat flexibility to get in a room with Durant next summer. Mission accomplished.
Let's not overlook that feat when you look what keeps happening to iconic teams like the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers.